If you are short on time and need a stretch that activates all the muscles and preps your body for movements, this one stretch fits the bill.
It’s called the world’s greatest stretch.
As the name claims, this PNF stretching is one of the best stretches, if not the best there is.
It certainly lives up to its name.
It hits every one of the key body parts including the ankles, legs, knees, hips, and thoracic spine, and stretches your full body. What’s more, it combines the best of static and dynamic stretching to mobilize and preps the body for better performance.
The World’s Greatest Stretch accomplishes both static and dynamic stretching.
It’s effective in lengthening the target muscles at each pose through the static hold. It then takes you through dynamic movements to work on flexibility and mobility.
It’s a functional exercise that stretches all key muscle groups.
Whether you are an athlete warming up for peak performance on the court or someone with a stiff back and needs a good stretch, this stretch covers it all.
PNF Stretching
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Stretching is a form of flexibility training.
It incorporates both lengthening the muscles and contracting them. It offers deep stretching while increasing the range of motion and adding flexibility.
Anyone from beginner to pro athlete can take advantage of this all-around best stretch. Here is how to perform the proper way.
How to Perform the World’s Greatest Stretch
- Get into a high-plank position with your hands on the floor and feet fully extended to the back. Keeping your core and glutes engaged, bring your right foot forward and place it next to your right hand.
- With control, bring your right hand over, right above your head while pressing your left hand into the ground. Feel your chest open and shoulder blades squeezed while your front thigh and back hamstring feel the stretch. Tilt your head up towards the ceiling to gaze at the lifted right hand. Hold the position for a few seconds before returning.
- Repeat on the opposite side and hold the last pose. Alternate sides and repeat several times.
This dynamic stretch combines a static hold. Be sure to hold each pose to practice deep stretching of the target muscles.
This stretch activates and stretches muscles in the chest, core, arms, hips, glutes, and hamstrings.
It also promotes proper posture by bringing attention and awareness to your back, core, spine, and shoulders.
All it takes is 30 seconds to perform this full-body stretch that can boost your flexibility, mobility, and range of motion.
Add it to your daily stretch routine or warm-up to get the most out of your workout.
